TRENDS Highlights Media's Role In Sustainable Development At 21st Arab Media Forum In Beirut
TRENDS Research & Advisory played a key role as a strategic partner in the 21st Arab Media Forum, held in Beirut, Lebanon. The event, themed "Media and Development: Partners of the Present and Allies for the Future," attracted numerous Arab Ministers of Information, political figures, academics, diplomats, media professionals, and artists from across the Arab region.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, highlighted that the theme "Arab Media at the Heart of Sustainable Development" signifies a shift in understanding media's role. He noted that media is evolving from merely reporting news to actively contributing to sustainable development. He emphasised that professional media is crucial for raising awareness and encouraging positive public engagement.
Dr. Hamza Al-Mustafa opened discussions by stating that Syria is moving towards pluralistic media after years of restrictions. He stressed that free and responsible media are essential for sustainable development in Syria. Al-Mustafa called for national media to bridge societal divides and promote citizenship culture.
Dr. Saad Al-Barrak underscored that responsible freedom is vital for development. He remarked, "The economy is the engine of development, and media is its vital artery." He noted that countries like the United States and Singapore have thrived by prioritising freedom and creativity.
Dr. Noufal Abu Raghif discussed Iraq's challenges with disinformation and digital falsification. He mentioned initiatives to protect social peace while balancing freedom with digital sovereignty. Abu Raghif also proposed an Arab Charter to define media's role in sustainable development.
MP Georges Adwan concluded the session by asserting that free media is essential for genuine development. He highlighted Lebanon's efforts in drafting a new media law aligned with digital changes while protecting expression freedoms.
TRENDS Pavilion Highlights
Alongside forum sessions, Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed inaugurated TRENDS' knowledge pavilion at the exhibition accompanying the forum. The pavilion showcased around 400 titles on AI, sustainable development, media, political Islam, and more from TRENDS Encyclopedia on the Muslim Brotherhood.
The pavilion drew significant attention from visitors and participants as it was the only research-focused exhibit at the event. It featured analytical studies reflecting a deep scientific understanding of regional and global issues.
The forum's first session titled "Arab Media at the Heart of Sustainable Development" was organised by TRENDS in collaboration with senior Arab ministers and officials. Speakers included Dr. Hamza Al-Mustafa from Syria; Dr. Saad Al-Barrak from Kuwait; Dr. Noufal Abu Raghif from Iraq; and MP Georges Adwan from Lebanon.
The speakers collectively agreed on the importance of free and responsible media as a foundation for sustainable growth in the Arab world. They emphasised that freedom fuels economic progress by fostering creativity and bridging divides to shape a shared vision for future advancement.
With inputs from WAM
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